CHOOSE THE GOAL
Choose the Lifestyle
Congratulations to all our 2025 Best of Life winners! These winning business owners had a dream and worked hard to make it a reality, and Canton Family Life readers have rewarded them with their patronage and votes. Be sure to check out pages 20-21 to see the list of this year’s recipients.
Speaking of dreams, many consider January a time to make resolutions, create vision boards, or set new goals for the year ahead. Sometimes, we can get a little lofty and choose big goals without being realistic about what it takes to achieve them. In other words, reaching and maintaining our goals may require complete lifestyle changes we haven’t fully considered.
For example, we often see images or videos of successful people with flashy material possessions or before-and-after transformation photos of those who have lost significant weight and added lots of muscle. What we don’t see are the sacrifices they made or continue to make to achieve and maintain these accomplishments.
For instance, we don’t see the seven-day work weeks and time away from family it often takes to create and run a successful business to fund the beautiful home we notice in someone’s social media photo. We don’t see the weighing and prepping of every morsel of food that enters the mouth of the person who has lost 50 pounds; the hours spent grinding in the gym; or the parties, sweet treats, and other indulgences they give up.
So, when we choose big goals such as these, we must understand that what we’re really choosing is to commit to a new lifestyle.
“It’s easy to want the public rewards, but you also have to want the hidden costs.” -James Clear
With careful consideration, planning, and preparation, you will set yourself up for success this year.
Best wishes for a wonderful 2025 — may all your dreams come true!
Julie Senger, Editor-in-Chief
PUBLISHER
Family Life Magazines
Publisher@FamilyLifePublications.com
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Julie Senger
Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com
ART
Stephanie Bolton
Stephanie@FamilyLifePublications.com
Tiffany Corn
Tiffany@FamilyLifePublications.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Jack Tuszynski
PhotoJack.Net@Gmail.com
SALES/MARKETING MANAGER
David Wright
David@FamilyLifePublications.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Cherokee Office of Economic Development, Sarah Childers, Tony Craft, Gary Lamb, Tim Morris, Jennifer Paire, Ellen Samsell Salas, David Thompson, Paige Waters, Farris Yawn
Family Life Magazines
6175 Hickory Flat Highway Suite 110-PMB 341 Canton, GA 30115 770-213-7095
Also available online at FamilyLifeMagazines.com
Family Life Magazines publishes the only monthly magazines in Cherokee County that reach more than 30,000 readers in print and digital formats — each issue, every month, with more direct-mailed copies sent to Cherokee County homes than any other local magazine.
The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists, and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/ publisher, and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. The cover and its accompanying magazine content are a paid advertisement. Canton Family Life magazine is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher.
Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options.
© 2025 All rights reserved.
Car Repair Shop Customer Service
By Tony Craft
[Home Life] In our post-pandemic world, customer service is not dead but seemingly harder to find. Do you think your auto repair shop’s staff treats you as they would themselves? This is a simple concept, but most businesses fail because they treat guest interactions like transactions rather than relationships. A company’s intentions are revealed by treating the customer differently throughout its interactions with them. In the vehicle repair world, many things are similar. How a company approaches customer service is a key difference.
The following examples with nuanced differences reveal a positive intention toward guests. Look for these things to ensure a guest-first environment at your local repair shop:
• Visual Inspections — are you asked if you want your car to be visually inspected? This gives the guest control over the experience from the start.
• Estimates — do you understand your estimate or feel comfortable asking for an explanation that will receive a patient response? The explanation should reveal the quality of parts chosen for the job, any labor/part warranties, and available alternative solutions. Trust can only be built if you understand what is happening.
• Coupons/Ads — are ads or coupons bringing awareness to a service and/or delivering value? Know the
difference between “value” and “price” because price is almost always used to disguise ulterior motives. Ensure the listed services are for what you think they are because, for example, a free service does not usually add value because it is likely free everywhere.
To summarize, when searching for a local vehicle repair shop, go where you feel wanted. Make sure customer service is at the forefront of your experience throughout the process. Lastly, understand value because value is less costly over time. L
Tony Craft is a franchise owner at Christian Brothers Automotive. 3745 Marietta Highway, Canton. 678-919-8122. CBAC.com/cherokee
Calendar
JANUARY
1-2/28
A Century of Toys:
100 Years of Play
View toys from the early 1900s to modern day, from beloved vintage treasures to contemporary favorites. 10:00am-5:00pm Wednesday-Saturday, Cherokee County History Center, 22 East Marietta Street, Canton. 770-345-3288. HistoryCherokee.org
2-4
Bring One for the Chipper Christmas Tree Recycling
The City of Canton recycles Christmas trees, FREE! Drop off live trees without lights or decorations. There will be NO curbside pickup of trees, so please take advantage of this opportunity. Regular business hours, Canton collection site, 2525 Ridge Road, Canton. CantonGa.gov
6-2/10
Project Valentine
Every year, Cherokee Recreation & Parks collects the following Project Valentine donations: lip balm, lotion, sticky notes, pens, markers, word searches, art or music activities, candy (sugar-free and regular), and other holiday-related items. Donations are made into goody bags and delivered to Empower Cherokee, which is a nonprofit organization that serves the special needs community. Please drop off contributions to The Buzz, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton, or Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. PlayCherokee.org
10-20
Rink on the River Ice Skating
Bundle up, lace up, and glide on real ice at this unforgettable winter experience! The fee is $12-14. Check the website for times, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 404-710-3808. EtowahMill.com
10 & 24
Parent’s Night Out
Kids will make arts and crafts, play in the pool, eat pizza, and watch a movie. The fee is $30 per child.
5:30-10:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. 678-880-4760. PlayCherokee.org
11
American Heart Association First Aid and Homeland Security Stop the Bleed Courses — Learn these skills to help someone in an emergency. FREE (donations accepted, $120 total value).
9:00am-3:00pm, Cherokee County Fire Station #23, 7625 Vaughn Road, Canton. 770-406-6657. V7.HFVA.org
11
Wreaths Across America
Wreath Removal and Cleanup
Volunteers will remove wreaths that were placed in December. Please meet at the Public Information Center for instructions. A leaf rake and gloves are recommended. No sign-up necessary; all are welcome.
9:00am, Georgia National Cemetery, 101 Scott Hudgens Drive, Canton. 770-479-9300. GaNationalCemetery.org
18
Stand Up For Seniors Volunteer Aging Council’s (VAC) Fundraising Luncheon
Support VAC programs and get a delicious lunch for $10. All proceeds support local seniors and senior veterans. 11:30am-1:00pm, Merrill Gardens, 12730 Highway 92, Woodstock. VAC-CherokeeGa.org
Georgia Player’s Guild To the Limit: The Ultimate Eagle’s Experience
Enjoy this tribute to the songs of the Eagles. Tickets are $50-$70. 6:30pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. GeorgiaPlayersGuild.com
23
Veterans Archery — Discover the thrill of archery! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the sport, this event is designed specifically for veterans to enjoy a fun and safe experience while learning lifelong skills, $5 per person. 6:00-7:15pm, The WREC, 7545 Main Street, #200, Woodstock. PlayCherokee.org
25
AHA CPR/AED Course
Learn the basic lifesaving skills of CPR and how to use an AED to help someone in an emergency at this American Heart Association-certified course. FREE (donations accepted, $75 value). 9:00am12:00pm, Cherokee County Fire Station #23, 7625 Vaughn Road, Canton.770-406-6657. V7.HFVA.org
Community Yoga Classes — Mondays. 10:00-11:00am, The WREC, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. PlayCherokee.org
MilVet Meetup — First Monday of each month. 6:008:00pm, Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm Street, Woodstock. 404-441-8900. MilVetCommunity.org
Cherokee Veterans Community Monthly Meeting — First Thursday of each month. 6:30-8:00pm, First Baptist Church Woodstock (“A” Building/Chapel Building, Room A250), 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock. 678-570-5828. CherokeeVeteransCommunity.org The G.O.D. Squad (Grandparents On Duty) — Second and fourth
Thursdays of each month. 10:30am, Hickory Flat United Methodist Church, 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton. 770-345-5969.
BINGO for Charity! — Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. 7:30pm Wednesdays/Fridays and 3:00pm Sundays, Canton Family Moose Center, 278 Moose Loop Road, Canton. 770-479-8300.
Car-B-Que at the Flat — Second Sunday of each month. 10:00am2:00pm, Old Country Place, 6764 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton. Facebook.com/CarBQueAtTheFlat
Historic Canton Theatre
Historic Theaters
Expedition — The Georgia Trust and Fox Gives invite you to explore some of Northwest Georgia’s most historic theaters. Tickets are $40-$65. 9:30am-4:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 East Main Street, Canton. 770-591-0282. CantonGa.gov
25
25
Service League’s Annual Gala and Benefit for the Children — This black-tie optional, community-wide event raises money for children in need in Cherokee County and honors a community member with the presentation of the annual Heritage of Hope award. It includes dinner, music, community mingling, and a silent auction. Tickets are $150 per person. 6:00pm, Timbers on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Suite 202, Canton. ServiceLeague.net
Doo-Wah Riders — Enjoy this band’s “high-energy country music with a Cajun twist.” Their tight musicianship and powerful arrangements of classic, contemporary, and original songs have made them favorites everywhere they go. Tickets are $10-$45. 3:00pm and 7:30pm, The Falany Performing Arts Center at Reinhardt University, 199 Fine Arts Drive, Waleska. 770-720-9167. TheFalany.com
FEBRUARY
1
Uptown — This group of men combines the smooth stylings of R&B with the fresh hits of today, creating the perfect mix of Bruno Mars-caliber stage presence with the vocals of Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye. Tickets are $10-$45. 3:00pm and 7:30pm, The Falany Performing Arts Center at Reinhardt University, 199 Fine Arts Drive, Waleska. 770-720-9167. TheFalany.com
8
19th Annual Guns & Hoses 5K Run/Walk When registering, participants will choose the team they want to represent, and a portion of the fee will go to that agency’s charity. The Cherokee Sheriff’s Office’s (Guns) charity is the Charlie Ferguson Community Center, and the Cherokee County Fire Department’s (Hoses) charity is the Goshen Valley Boys Ranch. This event is a qualifier for The Atlanta Journal and Constitution Peachtree Road Race. 8:00am, Hobgood Park, 6688 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.org
Trivia Night — Thursdays. 7:00-9:00pm, The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. 678-762-9950. EtowahMill.com
Adults With Aging Parents Seminar — Third Thursday of each month. FREE! 6:30pm, Covenant Presbyterian Church (Kapperman-Williams Hall), 2881 Canton Road, Marietta. CobbCherokee@acapcommunity.org, ACAPCommunity.org/events
LIBRARY EVENTS
SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org
BALL GROUND
435 Old Canton Road, Ball Ground 770-735-2025
HICKORY FLAT
2740 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-7565
R.T. JONES
116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton 770-479-3090
ADULT ECLECTIC BOOK CLUB
January 13, 6:00pm, R.T. Jones
Participants will discuss Canary Girls by Jennifer Chiaverini.
FINANCIAL PLANNING SEMINAR
January 14, 11:00am, Hickory Flat
Join banking experts and learn how to prepare a personal saving and spending plan to make this your best year yet.
PICTURE FRAME PAINTING
January 14, 5:00pm, Ball Ground
Children of all ages are invited to paint a picture frame keepsake! Materials are provided while supplies last. All children must be accompanied by a participating adult.
ADULT PAINT NIGHT
January 16, 6:00pm, Ball Ground
Participants will paint along with a tutorial. Materials will be provided while supplies last.
FAMILY GAME NIGHT
January 21, 5:00pm, Ball Ground
A variety of games will be available, so bring your family and friends! This program is for all ages.
KIDS PAINTING NIGHT
January 29, 4:00pm, Hickory Flat
Participants ages 6-11 will paint a fun portrait on a tiny canvas. Registration is required.
PATRON ART GALLERY
January 29, 5:30pm, R.T. Jones
Celebrate talented patron artists by viewing their works. Refreshments will be provided. If you’d like to display a piece of art, please register at SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org.
Expect the Unexpected
By Paige Waters
Inthe wake of recent severe weather incidents such as Hurricane Helene, it is wise to be prepared for other weather events that may arise. Emergency preparedness involves planning and organizing resources to minimize risks and effectively respond to emergencies or disasters.
Here are the key components of a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan:
Know your risks.
• Identify local hazards (e.g., tornados, floods, hurricanes, or power outages).
• Understand how these risks could impact your community, workplace, or family.
Create an emergency plan.
• Establish evacuation routes and safe meeting places.
• Identify emergency contacts and ensure all family or team members know how to reach them.
• Include specific plans for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, or pets.
Assemble an emergency kit.
Essential items include:
• Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days) or a simple water filtration system
• Nonperishable food
• First aid supplies
• Flashlights, extra batteries, a multitool, and a rope or cords
• Cash
• Medications and copies of prescriptions
• Toiletries
• Change of clothes
• Old prescription glasses and/or hearing aids
• Important documents (e.g., IDs, insurance cards, and medical records) in a waterproof container
• Communication devices such as a portable phone charger or battery-operated radio
• Waterproof matches – something dry to help with starting a warming or cooking fire
• A pot or pan for cooking
• Ziplock bags to help keep things dry
• Silver emergency blankets for each member of your family
• Plastic rain ponchos
• Maps
Stay informed.
• Sign up for local alerts and emergency notifications.
• Familiarize yourself with the community’s emergency plans, shelters, and resources.
• Monitor weather updates and warnings from reliable sources like NOAA or FEMA.
Practice drills.
• Conduct regular fire, evacuation, and emergency response drills at home, school, or work.
• Teach children how and when to dial 911.
Employ home and workplace safety features.
• Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors and test them monthly.
• Maintain a fire extinguisher and ensure everyone knows its location and how to use it.
Engage your community.
• Participate in Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training.
• Share preparedness resources and encourage neighbors to create a plan.
• Partner with local organizations to raise awareness.
Make your health a priority.
The American Heart Association promotes eight critical measures for maintaining heart health:
1. Healthy eating habits – Prioritize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
2. Be physically active – Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week.
3. Quit tobacco – Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
4. Get enough sleep – Adults should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
5. Maintain a healthy weight – Achieve and sustain a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI).
6. Manage blood pressure – Keep your blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg.
7. Control cholesterol – Keep LDL cholesterol levels low.
8. Reduce blood sugar – Maintain healthy blood glucose levels.
Paige Waters is a Fire Safety Educator at Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services Fire Marshal’s Office, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. 678-493-6291. CherokeeCountyFire.org
Community
Cherokee Youth Girls Flag Football Team Wins State Championship
At the 2024 Georgia Recreation and Parks Association (GRPA) State Championships hosted December 6-7 by the Jackson County Recreation Department, the 14U Cyclones bested their competition, earning the championship nod in their division. The team’s historic victory represents a significant milestone in Georgia’s youth sports. The girls dominated the competition, beginning with a 26-0 win over Jackson County, followed by a 44-0 triumph over Sandy Springs before clinching the championship with a 25-19 win over Gilmer County.
The championships, held at Panther Stadium at Jackson County HS, featured flag football talent from across Georgia. The championship games celebrate athleticism, teamwork, and sportsmanship with teams from various counties competing for top honors. For more information about the Cherokee Youth Girls Flag Football program, visit PlayCherokee.org.
Keep Cherokee Beautiful Presents Annual Service Awards
Keep Cherokee Beautiful (KCB) honored its volunteers for exceptional services to the organization and the community.
Allatoona Lake Warriors earned the Partner of the Year Award for their work in keeping the lake free of litter and debris. The group of over 225 volunteers cleaned up over 270 miles of shoreline. Every weekend, the volunteers travel the lakeshores and coves by various transportation means. The group also helped install trash booms along creeks and tributaries, which prevent trash from flowing downstream and entering the lake.
Etowah High School student Hayden Raffield earned the Volunteer of the Year Award. Raffield is the founder of Etowah Eagles Service Connection, a group that allows over 160 students to serve the community through Habitat for Humanity, the Lake Allatoona Association, and KCB among others. Raffield has led several volunteer efforts and most of KCB’s litter cleanups and recycling events, as well as Woodstock’s recycling events.
Linda Hartsfield was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for her decades of volunteerism with the Lake Allatoona Association. She coordinates efforts for the Great Lake Allatoona Cleanup, handling the needs of the volunteers and ensuring the annual event's success. Hartsfield was traveling and unable to attend the meeting to accept her award.
Coaches (L-R): Kevin Lanier, Rusty Wiley, and Jeb White. Players (standing L-R): Brynlie Sherril, Calyse Thomas, Evan Wiley, Ana Elisi Pena, Sami Kelly, Skye Rowley, Kara Lanier, Lexis Standbridge, Ireland Tucker, Chloee King, Andrea Valdez, Stella Bolien, Aubrey Sherril. Player (lying): Lola Brown
The Lifetime Achievement Award is presented.
Hayden Raffield receives his award.
KCB Lake Warriors receive their award.
Cherokee County School District Announcements
Students Increase AP Success and Earn International Honors
CCSD high school students have increased their success in college-level courses, earning international honors for their schools. Students raised their overall Advanced Placement (AP) exam average score to 3.6, up from 3.4, this past spring, according to a new report from the College Board, while also increasing participation with 6,955 exams completed, up from 6,091. Eighty-two percent of CCSD’s exam scores were a 3 or higher – the highest pass rate ever for the school district, up from 78%. The total value of the college tuition CCSD students will avoid paying due to this success, assuming each exam equals just one college course, is estimated at $6.1 million, up from $4.6 million.
Two Teachers Named Georgia STEM Scholars
Karina Dean of Hickory Flat ES and Cat Klingbeil of Freedom MS earned the honor presented annually by the Georgia Youth Science & Technology Centers (GYSTC). Only 25 elementary and middle school teachers from a pool of statewide nominees were recognized as 2025 Don Cargill STEM Scholar Award winners.
Honored educators are selected for their excellence in teaching students about STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), their innovation in integrating STEM lessons in elementary and middle school education, and their leadership of student-based projects with an impact that reaches beyond their classrooms. Each honoree receives a $500 award to purchase classroom STEM supplies.
Athletes of the Month
CCSD’s December Female
Athlete of the Month is Elizabeth Waller of Cherokee HS for flag football. Will Rajecki of Sequoyah HS is December’s Male Athlete of the Month for football. Outstanding studentathletes are nominated by their high schools, and a committee selects an overall winner. The winners receive a T-shirt, a certificate, and recognition on CCSD’s athletics website and social media.
Karina Dean
Elizabeth Waller
Cat Klingbeil
Will Rajecki
Former Cherokee Arts Center To Be Rehabilitated for Court System Use
Groundwork is being laid to rehabilitate the former Cherokee Arts Center on North Street in downtown Canton for court system use.
The Arts Center closed in 2022, and the property reverted to county ownership. Last year, the county engaged Pieper O’Brien Herr Architects for structural engineering services, as the building is in disrepair. The county is now moving forward with repairs and renovations that preserve the historic structure while also reducing the space needs and resulting cost for the upcoming expansion of the adjacent Justice Center facility.
American Rescue Plan Act and Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax funds are being used to pay for the renovations. The Board of Commissioners approved a Construction Manager at Risk Agreement. The approval included a guaranteed maximum price allowance not to exceed $5.7 million. Completion of the project is expected in early 2026. Once completed, the refurbished facility will house the Accountability Courts, Drug Testing Lab, and Indigent Defense Office.
Cherokee County Recycling Center Expands Services
Cherokee County Recycling Center is expanding services through a partnership with America’s Thrift, enabling residents to recycle more items conveniently.
“We are excited to announce that we can now accept donations of clothing, textiles, shoes, and books for recycling,” said Recycling Center Manager Troy Brazie. “Three donation drop boxes have been installed at our Blalock Road facility, and items can be dropped off anytime during normal business hours.”
Donations are accepted free of charge, and a portion of the proceeds from America’s Thrift will support Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
Habitat for Humanity Neighborhood To Be Built in Cherokee County
Seeking to meet an unprecedented level of need, leaders of Habitat for Humanity – North Central Georgia (HFH-NCG) have announced plans to build 70 new homes in three communities over the next three to five years in Cherokee, Forsyth, and, for the first time, Dawson counties.
“Our expansion comes at a critical time,” said Steve Napier, executive director of HFH-NCG. “Housing affordability is one of the most pressing challenges in our community today. Together, we have an incredible opportunity to make a lasting difference and create a brighter future for families in our community.”
The HFH-NCG campaign’s fundraising goal is to raise $9 million over the next three years. When combined with funds from government grants and corporate, faith, and civic partners, it will support infrastructure development, building costs, and the construction of 70 homes in three neighborhoods in three counties.
The new communities will be inspired by Pinewood Heights, the 14-lot HFH-NCG neighborhood in Gainesville, which now has six completed homes providing safe, affordable housing for six families.
For more information about supporting the initiative, contact Katherine Ortwerth, director of philanthropy, at KOrtwerth@habitat-ncg.org or Steve Napier at SNapier@habitat-ncg.org.
The main Recycling Center is located at 470 Blalock Road in Canton. For more information, including hours of operation and a list of accepted items, visit CherokeeGa.com/recycling-center.
Founded in 2006, HFH-NCG serves Cherokee, Dawson, Forsyth, and North Fulton counties and enables individuals to build strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter.
Seniors and Technology
By Tim Morris
[Lifestyle] Admittedly, I’m not the most tech-savvy person. I must constantly write things down such as instructional steps and passwords. When my wife asks me to schedule my doctor appointment, I panic because I know I must sign in to my chart. Though I eventually figure it out, I often question my actions — did I select the correct date and time? I understand this is how things are done today, and there are people my age who have no problem doing everything online.
Many of the seniors I work with find the process of scheduling appointments, ordering prescription refills, and banking online a nightmare to navigate. Lots of seniors don’t own computers or smartphones. Most prefer calling to make appointments or going to their bank with their ID to withdraw funds by writing checks because
many don’t own a debit card. Most places try to help seniors with these processes.
We need to be patient with our elderly customers. If that means holding their hand and walking them through it, we must take the time. My staff at Cherokee County Senior Services goes the extra mile to help seniors process any situation they face. I once received a call from a 90-year-old gentleman who was told I could help him with anything. He wanted to know how he could forward his cell phone calls. I asked him who his provider was and “Googled” the answer. I then walked him through it step by step, and it worked. He gratefully said they were right — I did know how to do everything.
So, remember to take the extra time and don’t expect everyone to be able to navigate technology so quickly. L
Tim Morris is the director
By Jennifer Paire
FRAMING YOUR VIEW
Forget foggy windows, drafty rooms, and dated exteriors.
Window World of Atlanta’s loyal client base is built on its reputation for customer service, no-pressure sales approach, competitive pricing, and best-in-class warranties.
“Window World was recommended by a number of local people, so I set up an appointment to replace nine windows,” wrote Tony Brischler in a recent Google review. “The sales rep was very knowledgeable. And for the price and quality, you couldn’t beat it. They installed all nine windows in five hours and did a great job cleaning up.”
“I wouldn’t hesitate to call on them again.” -Tony Brischler
Considered the largest replacement window and exterior remodeling company in the United States, Window World has sold more than 1 million vinyl windows annually since 2009. A family affair, Window World of Atlanta is one of three locations owned by Michael and Melissa Edwards and is operated by their son, President Stefan Stowe.
“I take great pride in my home,” wrote Kendric Naylor, who had replacement vinyl windows installed last summer. “These new windows will increase my property value and improve my home’s energy efficiency.”
Naylor chose Window World of Atlanta after learning about the company’s American-made vinyl windows and its transferable lifetime warranties.
“I have been burned a few times with contractors, so I was a little nervous to have these guys work on the house,” he confided. “They were efficient, professional, and thorough. They did the job right the first time without me needing to correct them.”
Customer-Centric Service
While Window World was founded in 1995 as a full-service vinyl window replacement company, its offerings have grown to include entry, patio, and garage doors; siding; gutters; and most recently — roofing. As an Energy Star partner, the company’s products are quality assured by Good Housekeeping and manufactured by affiliate company Associated Materials, Inc., at plants in Ohio and North Carolina.
Window World offers more than the traditional free estimate for services.
“We conduct inspections for homeowners and inspect the entire house to handle things they potentially need and to determine whether things need replacing or not,” said Sean McGeehan, vice president of sales. “Our business is built on referrals and repeat business — it’s about taking care of the homeowners because the homeowners take care of us. We want to find the root cause of anything that is happening.”
No project is too small. Window World will do anything from one vinyl window replacement to a full-on exterior renovation. Sales reps walk the home’s exterior with the homeowner, take measurements, and create an a la carte estimate that shows the customer exactly what they are getting.
During inspections, sales reps show homeowners a miniature version of the company’s windows and convey the benefits and perks of the product.
“We offer SolarZone glass packages that prevent sun penetration, and we use a heat lamp so homeowners can feel the difference,” McGeehan explained.
Window World offers seven categories of vinyl windows including custom windows with 18 interior and exterior palettes, multiple grid options, and etched glass that does not obscure a beautiful view.
Strong Family Culture
related to the Edwards. “It’s one of the reasons I love working here. They do a great job making me and my family feel like we are part of their family.”
Starting in 2002, Michael and Melissa Edwards built their reputation by developing lifelong relationships with customers in Huntsville, Alabama, and took over an underperforming market in Birmingham with great success.
The couple worked the same magic in Atlanta while incorporating their family into the company’s operations. In addition to the Edwards and Stowe, other family members in leadership include Heather Vallese, vice president of finance; Jacob Appleby, vice president of operations; and two daughters-in-law who oversee marketing and content management.
“What separates Window World from other companies is you are part of the family,” said McGeehan, who is not
At various local events and festivals, Window World of Atlanta will host a booth where McGeehan, his wife, and two young sons will greet the community, hand out gear to existing and future Window World clients, and spend time with some of the company’s 75 employees.
Window World’s affection for family extends into the communities of its employees. The company supports St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by raising funds and participating as a National Series Sponsor and team for the St. Jude Walk/Run. Additionally, the company sponsors the Cobb County Public Safety Department and local schools including those in Cherokee County. Employees also spent a day providing labor to Habitat for Humanity for the organization’s 50th build in Marietta.
For more information or to schedule a free estimate, please call Window World or visit their website.
Canton’s Bright Future
By Farris Yawn
Celebrating the New Year allows us to look forward, make resolutions, and plan for the coming years. The City of Canton team has been making plans for a while (in some cases, quite a while) that will progress or be completed this year.
Several road and intersection improvements will begin soon. The plans for improvements at the Highway 5/Highway 140 intersection, in partnership with Cherokee County and the Georgia Department of Transportation, are being finalized. The roundabout construction to replace the intersection at Reinhardt College Parkway and Waleska Road will hopefully begin this year. Traffic light installation at the
Walgreens on Prominence Point Parkway is planned to occur by the end of the year. The Canton Police Department is also working with several neighborhoods to find solutions to their traffic and speeding issues. This is all in addition to our regular road paving and maintenance schedule.
Work continues on the plans for South Canton Park located on Highway 5. it will feature state-of-the-art amenities for adults and children alike, and will also be the site of our city’s new dog park. There will be separate off-leash sections for large and small dogs and paths for on-leash walking.
The Wastewater Treatment Plant at the entrance of Boling Park should also be completed this year. This expansion will serve the needs of our current and future residents for many years to come. The timing for its completion is perfect because it will allow us to attend to some necessary improvements to our Water Treatment Plant.
The historic downtown Canton Fire Station (formerly the Post Office and then City Hall) will be getting some much-needed renovations and improvements in partnership with the Cherokee County Fire Department. We are also working with Cherokee County to design new parking and shopping facilities on North Street to serve downtown Canton and the courthouse. The historic Canton Theatre is getting a refreshed façade this year, thanks to a grant from the Fox Theatre.
Work will continue on the trail system connecting our parks, improving river access with a new kayak ramp and a pedestrian bridge over the Etowah River at the Mill.
All this progress is in addition to our usual full schedule of events including First Fridays, Canton Farmers Market, River Rock Concert Series, and the Multicultural Festival. The future looks bright for the City of Canton in 2025.
Farris Yawn is the city councilman for Ward 3. 110 Academy Street, Canton. Farris.Yawn@cantonga.gov. CantonGa.gov
YourCreatingOwn Family
By Pastor Gary Lamb
[InGoodFaith] In my last few columns, I’ve talked about family. Let’s be honest — family is tough! We don’t get to choose the family we’re born into. Yet, we often feel an obligation to them no matter how unhealthy the relationship is. We allow family members to get away with stuff that we would never let other people get away with. In doing this, we sometimes destroy our marriage.
Reminder — the minute you get married, you have a new family. I’m not talking about your spouse’s family. I’m talking about you and your spouse. The two of you are now a family, and that family must take precedence over anything else if you want your marriage to last.
“Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh,” (12 Genesis 2:24 NIV).
These tips are imperative for creating a healthy marriage and family:
PUT GOD FIRST IN YOUR MARRIAGE.
“But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord,” (Joshua 24:15 NIV).
Your marriage will mirror your relationship with God. Put him first.
DETERMINE YOUR PATH.
“So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God,” (Romans 14:12 NIV).
You and your spouse determine the direction your family will go. You both decide what is important, what traditions you will have, and how you will live.
DENY ACCESS TO THOSE WHO DISRESPECT YOUR BOUNDARIES.
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character,’” (1 Cor. 15:33 NIV).
This is vital. Once you and your spouse determine the vision for your family, anyone who doesn’t respect that vision should be cut out of your lives.
DO WHAT YOU CAN WITHOUT GUILT.
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens,” (Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV).
You do not need to feel guilty for doing what is best for your spouse and kids. They come first. L
Gary Lamb is the pastor at Action Church, 271 Marietta Road, Canton. 770-345-3030. ActionChurch.tv
METRO ATLANTA FILM SUMMIT
Cherokee Empowers Local Filmmakers for Regional Impact
By The Cherokee Office of Economic Development
[StrategicLife] Less than six years after its launch, the Cherokee Film Summit is making waves across metro Atlanta.
The Cherokee Film Summit celebrated its fifth anniversary last March. Created by the Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED), the summit was designed to connect local innovators, entrepreneurs, and creatives while strengthening Cherokee’s film production pipeline.
Since its inception, the Cherokee Film Summit has welcomed over 100 speakers who have inspired more than 1,500 attendees with opportunities to land dream jobs, forge partnerships, complete passion projects, and develop the necessary skills needed to succeed in the film industry.
But this year, the Cherokee Film Summit is growing beyond the borders of Cherokee County. The inaugural Metro Atlanta Film Summit (MAFS) will be held at the YANMAR EVO//Center in southwest Cherokee on March 14.
Serving as Cherokee’s camera-ready liaison with the Georgia Film Office since 2013, COED understands the economic opportunity that film brings to communities.
“When a project films in Cherokee, it creates economic opportunity not just for the crew and production staff — productions also use local service providers and businesses, creating a lasting impact on our communities,” said Misti Martin, president and CEO of COED.
leaders, MAFS aims to ignite conversations that empower guests to chart the path forward for the metro filmmaking community.
The filming of American Made, starring Tom Cruise, in downtown Ball Ground brought an over $400,000 trackable impact to local businesses, residents, and the community.
To continue fostering growth in Cherokee’s film sector, COED aims to lead collaboration efforts across communities to strengthen the region’s bustling film industry.
“We can’t view ourselves in competition with other communities, but rather with other markets,” said Martin. “Working with other communities across the metro region shows filmmakers we are committed to fostering innovation and collaboration, inspiring confidence that metro Atlanta fiscally and logistically makes sense.”
Building off the Cherokee Film Summit’s desire to support the county’s film community, the team behind MAFS passionately believes that the diversely talented people who make up the metro region’s film workforce are the heartbeat of Georgia’s film production.
MAFS was created as a beacon of inspiration, perspective, and connection. Convening creatives, decision-makers, and industry
Like the Cherokee Film Summit, MAFS attendees can network with fellow filmmakers and attend sessions guided by the industry’s leading professionals, but the schedule will be expanded.
Beginning in the early afternoon, workshopstyle breakout sessions aimed at skill development accommodate 25 guests per room, covering a variety of topics. To spark deeper discussions, Round Tables are exclusive, reservation-only sessions that will allow attendees to meet with an expert in a small group setting of five or fewer.
The evening will conclude with keynote and feature presentations.
More information is available at MetroAtlantaFilmSummit.com. Follow @CherokeeOED on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for the latest updates. L
The Cherokee Office of Economic Development, One Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. CherokeeGa.org
Best Medical Practitioner/Family Medicine/Internal Medicine
Family Practice Center
470-297-1310
FamilyPracticeCenterPC.com
Best Obstetrics and Gynecology
Roswell Ob/Gyn, LLC (Sixes Road) 770-751-3600
RoswellObGyn.org
Best Pediatrics
Children’s at Cherokee 404-255-1933
CHOA.org/locations/childrens-at-cherokee
Best Medical Specialist (optometry, orthopedics, plastic surgery, podiatry, etc.)
Resurgens Orthopaedics – Canton 678-505-4455
Resurgens.com/canton
Best Pediatric Dentistry
Cherokee Children’s Dentistry 770-479-1717
CherokeeChildrensDentistry.com
Best Dentistry
Swords and Phelps Dentistry 770-479-3713 SwordsPhelpsDentistry.com
Best Orthodontics
Harmony Orthodontics 770-988-6552 HarmonyOrthoStudio.com
Best Wellness Center/Spa
Hartley Health & Wellness Center
678-880-6698
HartleyHealthAndWellness.org
Congratulations 2025 AWARD WINNERS
All winners will receive an award certificate and a copy of the award logo to share on their social media platforms and company websites. In addition, the contact information for each winning business will be promoted as a Best of Life winner at FamilyLifeMagazines.com.
Best Chiropractic
DT Chiropractic
770-580-0123
DTChiropractic.com
Best Legal Practice/ Attorney Geiger Legal Group, LLC 678-408-4510 Geiger-Legal.com
Best Real Estate
Albert Real Estate Team Angela Albert 770-240-2005
AtlCommunities.com/agents/ 1142265/Angela+Albert
Best Mortgage Broker
Homeowners Financial Group Canton 470-863-7070
HomeownersFG.com/ location/canton
Best Financial Planner
Griffith & Werner, Inc. 678-901-4167
Griffith-Werner.com
Best Moving Company
Page Relocation
770-224-8184
Best Networking Group/Event
Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce – Schmoozapalooza 770-345-0400
CherokeeChamber.com
Best Travel Agency/Agent
Marvelous Mouse Travels Katie Taylor 770-366-5620
MarvelousMouseTravels.com/ team-member/katiet
Best Auto Care
Killian Automotive 770-345-5873
KilliansAuto.com
Best Car Wash
Mr. Clean Car Wash – Canton 470-310-3454
PageRelocation.com
Best Insurance Agency/Agent
Providence Insurance
Josh Bagby Agency 770-824-8000
ProvidenceProtects.com
MrCleanCarWash.com/ canton-riverstone-parkway
Best Pet Care
(doggy daycare, pet supply stores, vets) BridgeMill Animal Hospital 770-479-2200
BridgeMillVet.com
Best Day Care/Preschool
The Goddard School 770-720-3003
GoddardSchool.com/atlanta/ canton-woodstock-foster-road-ga
Best Summer Camp
G. Cecil Pruett Community Center Family YMCA 770-345-9622
YMCAAtlanta.org/locations/ g-cecil-pruett-community-center-family-ymca
Best Senior Care/Senior Living
St. George Village
678-987-0409
StGeorgeVillage.org
Best Fitness/Health Club
Onelife Fitness – Holly Springs
678-752-1400
OneLifeFitness.com/gyms/ atlanta-holly-springs
Best Tutoring
Huntington Learning Center Woodstock 678-445-1515
HuntingtonHelps.com/center/Woodstock
Best Sporting Instruction
(gymnastics, martial arts, soccer, etc.)
360 Tumble and Gymnastics, LLC 770-704-1750
360Tumble.com
Best Performing Arts Instruction (dance, music, theatre)
Falany Performing Arts Center at Reinhardt University 770-720-9167
TheFalany.com
Best Fine Arts Instruction (art classes)
Paper Scissors Cake Art Studio
404-867-1630
PaperScissorsCakeArtStudio.com
Best End of Life Care
Darby Funeral Home
770-479-2193
DarbyFuneralHome.com
Best Dessert
(bakery, donut shop, ice cream)
Crumbl Cookies – Canton 678-890-0718
CrumblCookies.com/gacanton
Best Jewelers
Canton Jewelry
770-720-1965
CantonJewelry.com
Best Boutique/Gift Shop
Cotton Mill Exchange
770-992-9294
CottonMillExchange.net
Best Hair Salon/ Barber Shop
Jyl Craven Hair Design
770-345-9411
JylCraven.com
Best Painting A & P Painting and Flooring
470-300-9060
APPaintingAndFlooring.com
Best Flooring
Best Nail Salon
Serenity Nails
678-493-8395
SerenityNails.us
Best Live Entertainment/Event
Downtown Canton First Fridays 770-704-1500
CantonGa.gov
Best Special Event Planning/Services
The Rock Barn 770-802-9557
RentTheRockBarn.com
Best Interior Design Chamberhouse Fine Gifts 770-479-9115
Chamberhouse.net
Best Casual Dining
Perrotta’s Pizza 470-380-2500
PerrottasPizza.com
Best Fine Dining
Goin’ Coastal 770-479-3737
GoinCoastalSeafood.com
Cherokee Floor Covering 770-926-7500
CherokeeFloorCovering.com
Best Roofing/Siding/Windows Invictus Construction Group 770-560-2474
InvictusConstructionGroup.com
Best Plumber
Heritage Plumbing 770-735-3855
HeritagePlumbingInc.com
Best Electrician ServiceWise Electric & Plumbing 404-704-4603
ServiceWiseElectrical.com
Best Builder/ Remodeling
Window World 770-303-0757
WindowWorldAtlanta.com
Best Handyman
Mr. Handyman of Canton and Woodstock 404-301-8848
MrHandyman.com/canton-woodstock
Best Furniture/Home Decor
Hickory Grove Furniture
678-695-8033
HickoryGroveFurniture.com
Best Cleaning Services
Clean Office Exec, LLC 678-856-3771
CleanOfficeExec.com
Best Pest Control
Mosquito-Free 770-704-4560
Mosquito-Free.com
Best Landscaping Design/ Lawn Care
Landscape Matters
770-403-5813
LandscapeMattersInc.com
Best Heating and Air Services Jape Services 404-282-7887
JapeServices.com
Congratulations to Murphy Monaghan, a valued Family Life reader, who was selected from thousands of entries in this year’s Best of Life voter drawing. They received a $50 gift card.
Common Home Repairs To Ready Your Home for Spring
By David Thompson
[Home Life] When spring arrives in the next few months, many homeowners will begin thinking about home repair and maintenance projects. Whether it’s repairing drywall, fixing the deck, or tackling other home improvement tasks, a skilled handyperson can help get your home warm-weather-ready.
One of the most common springtime requests is drywall repair. During winter, homes can experience temperature fluctuations and humidity changes that lead to drywall cracks, dents, or water damage. Whether you have a small hole or significant damage, a qualified handyperson can restore your walls to their original condition, providing smooth, seamless repairs that leave no trace of previous damage, ensuring your home looks polished and fresh.
Many homeowners also need assistance with deck repair. After a season of cold
weather and moisture, decks may show signs of wear and tear. Loose boards, faded paint, and structural damage are common issues. When searching for someone to make the repairs, choose a company that handles minor issues and full refurbishments, offering services such as sanding, re-staining, replacing damaged wood, and pressure washing. The company should also inspect your deck for safety hazards and make any necessary renovations, so you can enjoy worry-free outdoor gatherings.
Other home maintenance tasks that many put off during the winter include repairing leaky faucets, doors, and windows, or installing new shelves and storage-solution structures. A quality company will be equipped to handle a wide variety of small projects to help get your home in top shape before the busy warm months.
As spring approaches, don’t let home repair projects linger. Hire a qualified handyperson to ensure your home is the perfect place to relax, entertain, and enjoy all the season has to offer. L
David Thompson owns Mr. Handyman of Canton/Woodstock/East Marietta, 6478 Putnam Ford Drive, Suite 214, Woodstock. 404-800-1345. MrHandyman.com/canton-woodstock
Book Review
BY SARAH CHILDERS
MRS. QUINN’S RISE TO FAME
BY OLIVIA FORD
Createnew habits and memories this year with the Sequoyah Regional Library System. Meet new friends by attending one of our all-ages programs, try new hobbies by joining one of our craft clubs, or fall in love with reading again by exploring our free collection of items for checkout.
Start the new year strong by visiting Woodstock Public Library on January 4 at 11:00am to stretch and relax at Yoga at the Library. Then, begin a new hobby with Hickory Flat Crafters Club on January 8 at 1:00pm. Next, celebrate the Lunar New Year with a special LEGO Lab at Rose Creek Public Library on January 11 at 3:00pm. If you want to strengthen your reading goals, visit R.T. Jones Memorial Library on January 13 at 6:00pm for the Adult Eclectic Book Club. Finally, stop by Ball Ground Public Library on January 21 at 5:00pm for a family game night. To see our full calendar and register for select programs, visit SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org.
This January, explore a fun, charming, coming-of-old-age tale from author Olivia Ford. Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame tells the story of Jenny who decides to find her independence after 59 years of marriage by secretly applying to be a contestant on the prime-time TV show Britain Bakes. When she enters this new world of challenges and cameras, Jenny is reminded of memories she had long forgotten, including one that may shatter the foundation of her marriage. To read this title and explore others, peruse the collection of physical, digital, and audiobooks available at no cost at your local library by visiting SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org.
Whether you’re looking for your next read or a fun hobby to start this year, Sequoyah Regional Library System has all the tools to help you succeed. Library cards are always free for those who live in Cherokee, Pickens, and Gilmer counties. Whatever journey you’re on this year, Sequoyah Regional Library System is proud to be your dynamic destination for discovery. We hope to see you soon at the library.
Sarah Childers is the marketing manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System. ChildersS@seqlib.org. SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org
Artist Profile
BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS
Figurative sculptor, art teacher, and student, Kelly L’Estrange Dillard is comfortable with the uncomfortable, the unconventional, and even the absurd. When seeing her sculptures, Dillard hopes that viewers will think, consider new points of view — and perhaps laugh.
Immersed in the creative world growing up, the native South African says her art plays on the “absurdity of the unconscious.”
“I like to hit on controversial issues,” Dillard said, “or on issues that are difficult to explain and create a story that allows us to see a new perspective, to experience some element of discomfort.”
Dillard writes a narrative for each sculpture that viewers can consider, while viewing her work.
Although her art touches upon weighty topics such as man’s role in the universe, her works are often inspired by everyday conversation. A chat about mosquitoes
led to Dillard’s learning everything she could about Georgia’s summer pests.
“They are really quite beautiful,” she said. “They’re havoc creators, but they also have a purpose.”
Composed of a giant mosquito with human babies crawling at its feet, one of her sculptures questions the impact of man’s attempts to control the insect.
Dillard’s sculptures engage viewers not only through their narratives and large scale but also through their realism. In her depiction of a laughing pig sitting at a dining table opposite a man who has fed the pig his brain, the pig’s hooves, belly, and snout as well as the man’s teeth, ruddy cheeks, and flabby neck, make both figures come alive.
While she is modeling each section, she adds detail and textures with the hope that people will notice the intricacies as well as the piece’s overall story and concept.
Noting that clay dries, shrinks, and can break during firing, Dillard says she must “think like an engineer.” First, she must consider what shape will not collapse on itself. Then, working with a robust “groggy” (or gritty) clay, she models the sculpture piece by piece, section by section.
“You have to dance when you’re playing with clay,” she said.
Typically, her sculptures are composed of flange sections, which she glues and bolts together after the clay has dried and been fired. For further support, she sometimes creates an inner “skeleton” that contracts during firing.
Rather than applying bisque and glazes that require further firing and risk possible breakage, Dillard “cold finishes” her pieces, painting them in oils. This treatment allows her to combine her love of painting with her love of sculpting. She treats the sculptures like a painting, first applying a gesso layer, then a terpenoid, then linseed to create a rich, shiny finish.
When done with her MFA at Georgia State University, Dillard hopes to create installation sculptures.
“I’ll create narratives. I’ll take all of my huge sculptures and put them in a house. Each room will be a narrative,” she said.
Allowing viewers to experience her sculptures in such everyday settings might be a bit uncomfortable, perhaps humorous, and almost assuredly thought-provoking.
Experience Dillard’s art by visiting Facebook.com/klestrangeart or IG@kellydillardart.
RibbonGroundCuttingsBreakings
